Tunisia records major leap in genomic sequencing technology
Human Genomics Laboratory in Tunis successfully completes high-throughput NovaSeq X Plus trial for precision medicine advancement
TUNIS, Tunisia (MNTV) — Tunisia has achieved a significant milestone in biomedical research after successfully completing its first large-scale operational test of an advanced genomic sequencing system, marking a major step forward in precision medicine and genetic science.
According to Nove News, the Human Genomics Laboratory at the Pasteur Institute of Tunis announced the successful deployment of the NovaSeq X Plus, one of the most advanced next-generation DNA sequencing platforms currently available.
According to laboratory findings, the system enabled simultaneous analysis of 96 exomes and 48 complete human genomes, delivering a comprehensive and highly accurate reading of genetic material. Officials reported a 100 percent technical success rate during the trial, underscoring the platform’s reliability and efficiency in high-throughput sequencing.
The Tunisian Ministry of Health said the breakthrough strengthens national capacity in early detection of rare genetic disorders and supports the development of advanced approaches in cancer research and precision oncology.
The initiative forms part of the broader “Genome Tunisia” project, which aims to map and analyze the genetic characteristics of the Tunisian population. The program is designed to deepen scientific understanding of inherited diseases while supporting biomedical innovation and public health research.
Authorities say the project reflects a strategic national push to expand investment in advanced medical technologies and develop local scientific expertise. It is also intended to enhance Tunisia’s healthcare independence by building domestic capacity in high-end genomic research.
The ministry linked the initiative to a wider national vision emphasizing the protection and development of genetic data as a strategic resource for the country’s scientific and healthcare systems.
The NovaSeq X Plus system, developed by Illumina, represents a major advancement in DNA sequencing technology. Introduced in 2022 and made commercially available in 2023, the platform is designed for large-scale genomic projects, offering higher speed, lower cost per sample, and improved accuracy compared to earlier systems.
Key technical features include dual flow cell functionality, enabling parallel sequencing operations, and extremely high data output capacity, allowing the sequencing of tens of thousands of human genomes annually on a single instrument.
The system also incorporates advanced Xleap-SBS chemistry, which improves sequencing precision and processing speed, alongside integrated onboard bioinformatics tools that reduce reliance on external computing infrastructure.
Officials noted that the platform also improves operational sustainability, using reduced plastic consumables and temperature-stable reagents that lower storage and transport requirements. These innovations make it suitable for large population studies, oncology research, and broad-scale genetic expression analysis.
Researchers say the successful trial positions Tunisia to expand its role in regional genomics research and strengthens its ability to participate in global precision medicine initiatives.
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